Senior Scientist I (SRA/ARM), SIMTech

A*STAR - Agency for Science, Technology and Research; Singapore; On-site; SGD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A*STAR - Agency for Science, Technology and Research is looking for a Senior Research Scientist specializing in motion control of automation systems. This role involves leading industry engagement, designing automation systems, and conducting independent research.

Candidates should have a PhD in a relevant field, 3-5 years of experience, and strong skills in control theory and automation tools. Join us to make impactful contributions in semiconductor machine design and advanced manufacturing.

Qualifications

• PhD degree in a relevant field with specialization in motion control or automation systems.
• 3–5 years of relevant work experience.
• Strong foundation in control theory, including classical and modern approaches.
• Hands-on experience with servo drives and linear motors.
• Familiarity with SolidWorks and MATLAB.

Responsibilities

• Lead industry engagement to define motion control requirements.
• Architect automation systems focused on precision motion control.
• Execute the full design lifecycle of automation systems.
• Conduct independent research and collaborate within teams.

Skills

Precision motion control theories

Control theory

AI-enabled algorithms

MATLAB/Simulink

SolidWorks

Servo drives

Education

PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Mechatronics

Tools

CAD & CAE software

Multi-axis motion platforms

Job description

About the Role

We are seeking a highly skilled and innovative Senior Research Scientist with a strong foundation in motion control of automation systems. The candidate should have hands‑on experience applying advanced control theories to precision motion systems under real‑world environments. Prior experience with complex semiconductor machine design is highly advantageous. This role requires an independent researcher who thrives in collaborative team settings and who can lead industry engagement from conceptualisation through to system design, development and deployment.

Job Description

• Industry Engagement & Problem Definition
  • Lead industry engagement to identify and specify the motion control and automation requirements in semiconductor and other advanced manufacturing sectors. This includes translating the operational requirements into actionable motion control and automation system specifications.
• Automation System Design & Conceptualisation
  • Architect automation systems with a focus on precision motion control for high-speed and high-accuracy applications. Apply precision motion control theories to develop novel solutions for development of complex equipment for semiconductor or other advanced manufacturing machines.
• Project Execution & Deployment
  • Execute the full design lifecycle from concept through conceptualization, design and analysis to prototyping, testing, and deployment of automation systems. Conduct laboratory tests to ensure the control systems meet stringent performance, accuracy, and reliability standards.
• Technical Expertise & Tools
  • Apply in-depth knowledge of precision motion control theories, servo‑actuator design and automation system architecture. Utilize software tools like MATLAB/Simulink, SolidWorks or motion‑control simulation tools for modelling, simulation and virtual prototyping.
• Independent Research & Collaboration
  • Conduct independent research in precision motion control and automation, while contributing effectively as a team player within cross‑functional teams. Mentor junior engineers and collaborate with electrical, controls and software teams to deliver integrated automation solutions.

Job Requirements

• PhD degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Mechatronics with a specialization in motion control, automation systems, or a closely related field.
• 3–5 years of relevant work experience or equivalent.
• Strong foundation in control theory, including classical and modern control approaches, especially AI‑enabled algorithms such as reinforcement learning.
• Hands‑on experience applying precision motion control theories to real‑world systems, with exposure to servo drives, linear motors, and multi‑axis motion platforms.
• Working knowledge of precision machine design principles, including vibration isolation, thermal management and error budgeting for high‑accuracy systems.
• Familiar with SolidWorks/SolidEdge, MATLAB/Simulink, CAD & CAE software, and motion simulation tools.
• Knowledge of commercially available motion control components (servo drives, encoders, drive electronics, controllers) and automation solutions, with ability to evaluate and select appropriate component technologies.
• Experience working in cross‑disciplinary teams (mechanical design, electrical, controls and software) and ability to conduct independent research while being an effective team collaborator.
• Prior experience in semiconductor machine design or related precision equipment development is highly preferred.
• Prior exposure to industry‑academic collaboration or R&D environments, with a track record of translating research outcomes into deployable solutions.